Well, if it's anything like my recent programming forays, 2/3 of your projects will be borne out of necessity... the remaining 1/3 out of some deep-seated sickness to amuse others at the cost of your own public ridicule.

Nevertheless, it's funny how even the silly projects pick up their own steam and direction once the ball gets rolling. I'm currently working on a "Lunch Forum" portal to allow co-workers to collaborate on meal selections and even receive suggestions based on a Perl Monk-ish type XP system. I can only imagine where this might lead to. :-P

Back on topic... regardless of the project, as long as it's something that will keep you interested, it's bound to hone your skills. And assuming the Monks stay by your side, all is well.